Afghan Allies Protection: Special Visa Extension and Streamlining
This act extends and modifies the special visa program for Afghans who assisted the U.S. government. It simplifies the application process, increases the number of available visas, and allows for the postponement of medical exams, accelerating their arrival in the United States. The changes aim to provide safety and support for those who risked their lives working with U.S. forces.
Key points
Increase in special immigrant visas for Afghans from 26,500 to 46,500, allowing more individuals to resettle in the U.S.
Option to postpone the mandatory medical exam before entering the U.S. for up to one year, with the exam required within 90 days of arrival.
Eligibility for special immigrant visas extended to surviving spouses and children of Afghans who died in service or worked for the U.S. government for at least 15 years.
Extension of the special visa program until the end of 2023, providing more time for applications.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_2032
Sponsor: Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH]
Process start date: 2021-06-10